Trans Ova shares their thoughts regarding the future of cloning
Holstein World: Where does Trans Ova Genetics see the future of cloning headed? What kind of an impact will it have on the Holstein genetics business? With the FDA statement, will the popularity of animal cloning increase?
Trans Ova Genetics: We see cloning as the next step in a continuum of advanced reproductive technologies available for cattle breeders. If one studies the impact of A.I., ET, and now IVF with sexed semen and frozen embryos, all have had or are having a significant impact on dairy producers’ business. Cloning certainly could represent the next step in this advancement of reproductive technology.
We do expect the interest in and application of cloning to increase. However, even now, cloning will remain a technology suited exclusively for the most elite tier of genetics, and cloned individuals will represent only a fraction of a percentage of tomorrow’s cattle breeding foundation. Cloning technology could help breeders produce significantly more embryos/offspring from the same genetic source. And, A.I. companies and bull owners could produce more semen from their most popular bulls, which may not be able to keep up with demand for their genetic influence. Cloning technology also can benefit breeders interested in using the genetics of cows or bulls that may have been lost before their true genetic merit is known.
Holstein World: Do you have any additional comments you’d like to provide?
Trans Ova Genetics: For breeders interested in cloning technology but perhaps not ready to make the investment, a genetic preservation is a great place to start. This first step in the cloning process involves cryogenically preserving a cell line of the animal, which can be used to start the cloning process at any time in the future. Many breeders who have done this see it as a form of insurance on their valuable animals.